the opportunity to join other leading scientists
from around the nation to judge the student
competition during the National FFA Convention.
We also continue to support the Walter Biddle Saul
High School of Agricultural
Sciences in Philadelphia, one
of four local FFA chapter
schools sponsored by FMC.
This year, FMC organized a
field trip for the entire W.B
Saul School to the Franklin
Institute, another long-time
FMC community partner.
In 2016 we launched a new
initiative to contribute to
the future of agriculture in Australia, where we
became a partner to the Future Farmers Network.
FMC made an educational presentation at the 2016
Young Beef Producers Forum. This partnership will
expand in 2017 to promote technical leadership and
responsible farming practices across the country.
DEVELOPING THE
FUTURE GENERATION OF FARMERS
In Pakistan, FMC works to develop the next
generation of farmers through the “Rising
Stars” program. Rising Stars is a series of
programs that teach children from farming
regions about the promising opportunities
in agriculture. The children learn about the
importance of agriculture to the economy as
well as the educational programs and career
options available to them. They also learn
technical skills such as responsible and safe
farming practices. Once they have completed
the program, they are tasked with being
“ambassadors” for agriculture in their local
villages. These programs give confidence to
rural children and encourage them to continue
their education while pursuing a career
in agriculture.
One important
aspect of the
Rising Stars
program was
participation
in PSiFi,
Pakistan’s
largest science
competition.
The competition was held at a highly regarded
business school in Pakistan, and FMC Pakistan
sponsored farmers’ children who competed
with students from across the country.
Students also attended information sessions
about the business school and learned how
opportunities in higher education could
transform their lives.
Muhammad Nasir Ali is one of the Rising Stars.
He spoke about his experience at the science
competition: “The event was a dream come
true. I got to visit the best institution in our
country and come toe-to-toe with the finest
brains in business during the competition. This
experience gave me immense confidence as I
realized I have what it takes to reach the top.
I come from an agricultural background and
have learned how we can revolutionize rural
life through technological advancement.”
FMC 2016 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
31